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Pollution and Skin

Exposure to air pollutants has had a major effect on skin over the years. It has been associated with premature skin aging and inflammatory or allergic skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and acne. The skin is under constant attack from irritants and pollution, let alone toxins in the environment that have yet to be neutralized.

Pollution comes in so many forms. There’s solar ultraviolet radiation, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, ozone and smoke. Every one of these can have an effect on skin.

Particulate matter can also clog pores, compromise skin function and even lead to premature signs of aging, including lines and loss of firmness.

“Hyperpigmentation,” is one of the worst results of pollution, says cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting. “One well-known study in Germany compared urban dwellers with rural residents, and when other things like UV were controlled, the city-based women experienced around 22 per cent more hyperpigmentation.”

Although most are invisible to the naked eye, tiny particles of chemicals, soil, smoke, dust or allergens, in the form of liquids, gases or solids, as well as gases and chemicals that are released into the air, pose a risk to human health, our skin and the planet as a whole. These airborne hazards are referred to as particulate matter and are released from a variety of sources both indoors and outdoors. When inside, PM levels are typically the same or lower than outside.

Main Source of Outdoor Particles: vehicles power generators industrial and agricultural emissions residential heating and cooking the manufacture and distribution of chemicals forrest fires

Because of this onslaught of pollution and irritants, cleansing your face and skin every single night is vital, and most especially during hot weather when pollution can be even worse. Using simple, natural ingredients that help hydrate, strengthen and protect the natural skin barrier can help tremendously. Alway wear sunscreen! We recommend mineral based in makeup and zinc based in standard.

Our 4-minute facial with our Face Oilz, is a fun way to deep clean in a hurry. Have more time? Steaming your face is a fun and effective way to open up the pores. Steep a few tea bags in hot water, then drape a towel over your head and let the steam do it’s magic. Steam for about 5-10 minutes.

After steaming we suggest gentle scrubbing since it helps eliminate the dead skin cells, which make your skin look dull. (But you already knew that!)